Majors study the relationships between dietary patterns, including intake of whole versus processed foods, nutrient status, dietary supplements, behavior and the health of individuals and populations, as well as health equity. Majors prepare for careers in health promotion, clinical nutrition, food service administration, community and public health nutrition, government agencies, private practice, and consulting. The program also prepares majors for pursuing advanced degrees, research, and careers in food and wellness industries. There are three degree tracks. The first degree track requires the nutrition and foods major with a minor of the students choice. The second degree track, the dietetics concentration, is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) and fulfills didactic requirements for licensing. Graduates of this track who complete all ACEND requirements will receive a Verification Statement and are qualified to apply for post-graduate dietetic internships in pursuit of Registered Dietitian Nutritionist certification. The third track is for students pursuing the Texas Teacher Certification Requirements. See note below regarding background checks for this option.